10675131

Apparatus and Methods of Making Denture Devices

PublishedJune 9, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
12 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. An upper implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device for placement on an edentulous maxilla or a lower implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device for placement on a mandible, comprising a patient-specific, physical model of an upper or a lower implant-supported denture device comprising a first material, comprising a first teeth region and a first gingival region surrounding the first teeth region, a second teeth region and a second gingival region surrounding the second teeth region, wherein the first and second teeth regions comprise one or more teeth shapes corresponding to a central incisor, a lateral incisor, a cuspid, a first bicuspid, a second bicuspid, a first molar, and a second molar; a gap between the first and second teeth regions and a third gingival region adjacent the gap; and at least one hole in the first material that corresponds with a location and orientation of a patient's implant; a plurality of denture teeth aligned in the gap of the physical model; and a second material that is different from the first material, at least partially filling the gap in the physical model and securing the plurality of denture teeth in the gap of the physical model.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a customizable, implant-supported denture system designed for edentulous patients, addressing the need for precise, functional, and aesthetically accurate dental prosthetics. The device is a physical model of an upper or lower implant-supported denture, fabricated from a first material that includes distinct teeth and gingival regions. The teeth regions feature anatomically accurate shapes corresponding to all natural teeth types—central incisors, lateral incisors, cuspids, bicuspids, and molars—while the gingival regions surround these teeth. A gap separates the first and second teeth regions, with a third gingival region adjacent to this gap. The model also includes holes precisely aligned with the patient's dental implants to ensure proper positioning. The system further incorporates a plurality of denture teeth placed within the gap, secured by a second material that differs from the first. This second material fills the gap, integrating the denture teeth into the model. The design allows for customization, ensuring a functional and natural-looking fit tailored to the patient's implant locations and oral anatomy. The invention improves upon traditional dentures by providing a more stable, implant-supported structure that mimics natural teeth and gums while accommodating individual implant placements.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , wherein the physical model further comprises at least one abutment interface surrounding the at least one hole.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to implant-supported functional fitting replica dentures, specifically addressing the need for precise alignment and stability in dental prosthetics. The device includes a physical model of a denture base with at least one hole for receiving a dental implant abutment. The physical model further includes at least one abutment interface surrounding the hole, which ensures accurate positioning and secure attachment of the denture to the implant. This interface enhances the fit and functionality of the denture, reducing complications such as misalignment or loosening. The abutment interface may be designed to match the shape and dimensions of the implant abutment, ensuring a snug and stable connection. The device is used in dental procedures to create custom-fitted dentures that integrate seamlessly with dental implants, improving patient comfort and long-term durability. The inclusion of the abutment interface distinguishes this design from conventional dentures, which lack such precise attachment mechanisms. The invention aims to streamline the fabrication process while ensuring optimal performance in clinical applications.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , further comprising at least one insert in the at least one hole to accommodate an attachment means.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to implant-supported dentures, specifically a functional fitting replica denture device designed to improve stability and comfort for dental implant patients. The device addresses the problem of traditional dentures that lack secure attachment to dental implants, leading to instability, discomfort, and difficulty in eating or speaking. The denture device includes a base structure with at least one hole that aligns with dental implants in the patient's mouth. These holes allow the denture to be securely attached to the implants, providing better stability than conventional dentures. The device also includes at least one insert placed in the holes to accommodate an attachment means, such as screws or other fastening mechanisms, ensuring a precise and secure connection between the denture and the implants. This design allows for easy removal and reattachment of the denture for cleaning or adjustments while maintaining a stable fit during use. The inserts may be made of materials that reduce wear on the attachment means, improving the longevity of the device. The overall structure is designed to mimic the natural appearance and function of teeth, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality for the user.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , comprising at least one attachment means on the physical model that corresponds with the location of the patient's implant.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to implant-supported dentures, specifically a functional fitting replica denture device designed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of dental implant procedures. The device addresses the challenge of ensuring precise alignment and fit between a patient's dental implants and the final prosthetic denture, which is critical for long-term stability and patient comfort. The device includes a physical model of the patient's dental arch, which incorporates at least one attachment mechanism positioned to match the exact location of the patient's dental implants. This attachment means ensures that the replica denture aligns perfectly with the implants during the fitting process, reducing the need for adjustments and improving the overall accuracy of the prosthetic placement. The physical model may also include additional features, such as guide structures or reference points, to further assist in the alignment and positioning of the denture relative to the implants. The device is used as a temporary or intermediate step in the dental implant procedure, allowing dentists to verify the fit and function of the denture before finalizing the permanent prosthetic. By providing a precise replica that corresponds directly to the implant locations, the device helps minimize errors and ensures a more predictable outcome for the patient. The attachment means may be adjustable or removable, allowing for customization based on the specific needs of the patient's implant configuration. This approach enhances the efficiency of the dental restoration process while improving patient satisfaction.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , comprising a gingival indentation adjacent the gap, on a buccal surface of the physical model, that is at least partially filled with the second material.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to implant-supported dentures, specifically a functional fitting replica denture device designed to improve the accuracy of dental implant placement and prosthetic alignment. The device addresses the challenge of ensuring precise fit and function in implant-supported dentures, which is critical for patient comfort and long-term success. The device includes a physical model representing the patient's dental anatomy, with a gap corresponding to the planned implant site. A gingival indentation is formed adjacent to this gap on the buccal (cheek-facing) surface of the model. This indentation is at least partially filled with a second material, distinct from the primary material of the model. The second material may be a soft or flexible substance that simulates gingival tissue, allowing for more realistic testing of the denture's fit and function before final fabrication. The indentation and filling material enable clinicians to assess how the denture will interact with the surrounding soft tissues, ensuring proper alignment and stability. This improves the accuracy of the final prosthetic, reducing the need for adjustments and enhancing patient satisfaction. The device is particularly useful in cases where implant placement must account for soft tissue contours and functional dynamics.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture devices of claim 1 , wherein the second material can be softened to reposition one or more of the plurality of denture teeth secured in place by the second material.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to implant-supported functional fitting replica denture devices designed to improve the stability and comfort of dental prosthetics. Traditional dentures often suffer from poor fit, instability, and discomfort due to improper alignment or wear over time. This invention addresses these issues by providing a denture structure with a dual-material design that allows for precise fitting and adjustments. The denture device includes a base structure made of a first material, which provides structural support and stability when anchored to dental implants. A second material is integrated into the base structure, specifically in regions where denture teeth are secured. This second material has the unique property of being softenable, allowing for repositioning of the denture teeth as needed. By softening the second material, the teeth can be adjusted to correct misalignment, improve bite function, or accommodate changes in the patient's oral anatomy. Once repositioned, the material can be hardened to lock the teeth in their new positions, ensuring a customized and stable fit. This design enables dentists to make precise adjustments without replacing the entire denture, reducing costs and improving patient satisfaction. The ability to modify the denture teeth' positions ensures long-term functionality and comfort, addressing common issues with conventional dentures.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , wherein the second material comprises a wax.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to implant-supported functional fitting replica denture devices designed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of dental implant procedures. The primary problem addressed is the need for precise, temporary prosthetics that facilitate proper alignment and function during the healing phase after dental implant placement. Traditional temporary dentures often lack stability and accuracy, leading to discomfort and potential complications. The device includes a base structure made of a first material, which provides structural support and stability. A second material, such as wax, is integrated into the device to allow for adjustments and fine-tuning during the fitting process. The wax component enables dentists to modify the shape and fit of the replica denture in real-time, ensuring optimal alignment with the implants and surrounding tissues. This adaptability reduces the risk of misalignment and improves patient comfort during the healing period. The wax material is strategically placed to allow for easy reshaping without compromising the structural integrity of the base. This design ensures that the replica denture remains functional while adjustments are made, providing a more accurate and comfortable fit for the patient. The use of wax also simplifies the fabrication process, as it can be easily molded and removed when a permanent prosthetic is ready. Overall, the invention enhances the precision and efficiency of dental implant procedures by providing a temporary prosthetic that is both functional and adjustable, improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 1 , comprising both an upper implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device and a lower implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to implant-supported functional fitting replica denture devices designed to replicate the fit, function, and appearance of natural teeth. The problem addressed is the need for accurate, stable, and aesthetically pleasing dentures that integrate with dental implants while maintaining proper occlusion and comfort. The device includes both upper and lower denture components, each supported by dental implants. The upper and lower dentures are designed to fit precisely over the implants, ensuring stability and preventing movement during use. The devices replicate the natural contours and alignment of teeth, improving chewing efficiency and speech clarity. The implant-supported structure provides superior retention compared to traditional removable dentures, reducing bone loss and preserving oral health. The design allows for customization to match the patient's existing dentition or desired aesthetic outcome. The upper and lower dentures are engineered to work together, ensuring proper bite alignment and reducing stress on the implants. The materials used are biocompatible and durable, ensuring long-term functionality. This system addresses the limitations of conventional dentures by offering a more secure, functional, and natural-looking solution for patients with missing teeth.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. An upper implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device for placement on an edentulous maxilla or a lower implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device for placement on a mandible, comprising a patient-specific physical model of an upper or a lower implant-supported denture device comprising a unitary material portion that comprises a first teeth region and a first gingival region surrounding the first teeth region, and a second teeth region and a second gingival region surrounding the second teeth region, wherein the first and second teeth regions comprise one or more teeth shapes corresponding to a central incisor, a lateral incisor, a cuspid, a first bicuspid, a second bicuspid, a first molar, and a second molar; a gap between the first and second teeth regions that corresponds to a location for at least two adjacent teeth to be restored; a third gingival region adjacent the gap between the first and second teeth regions that replicates a gingival architecture specific to a patient; and at least one hole at a location that corresponds to an implant in a jaw of the patient for attaching the denture device to the jaw.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a patient-specific, implant-supported denture device designed for either the upper (maxilla) or lower (mandible) jaw. The device is a functional replica used in dental restoration, particularly for edentulous patients requiring implant-supported dentures. The key problem addressed is the need for precise, custom-fitted dentures that accurately replicate a patient's gingival architecture and tooth alignment while accommodating implant placement. The denture device consists of a unitary material portion with two distinct teeth regions—each containing tooth shapes corresponding to central incisors, lateral incisors, cuspid, first and second bicuspids, and first and second molars. A gap separates these regions, corresponding to the location where at least two adjacent teeth will be restored. Adjacent to this gap is a third gingival region that precisely replicates the patient's unique gingival architecture. The device also includes at least one hole positioned to align with an implant in the patient's jaw, allowing secure attachment. This design ensures proper fit, functionality, and aesthetic integration with the patient's oral anatomy. The customization ensures accurate restoration while maintaining structural integrity and biocompatibility.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 9 , wherein the physical model further comprising an attachment means in the at least one hole that comprises a screw or a clip.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to implant-supported functional fitting replica denture devices, which are used in dental prosthetics to create accurate, functional replicas of dentures that are supported by dental implants. The primary problem addressed is the need for precise, stable, and easily adjustable connections between the denture replica and the dental implants during the fitting and fabrication process. Traditional methods often lack precision or require complex adjustments, leading to inefficiencies in the dental restoration workflow. The device includes a physical model of a denture replica that is designed to interface with dental implants. The model features at least one hole that aligns with the implant positions in the patient's mouth. To enhance stability and adjustability, the device incorporates an attachment means within the hole, which can be a screw or a clip. The screw provides a secure, threaded connection that allows for fine-tuning of the denture replica's position relative to the implants. Alternatively, the clip offers a quick-release mechanism for easy attachment and detachment during the fitting process. This design ensures that the denture replica remains accurately positioned while allowing for necessary adjustments, improving the overall efficiency and precision of dental implant-supported prosthetics. The attachment means can be integrated into the hole in various configurations to accommodate different implant systems and patient-specific requirements.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 9 , wherein the gap corresponds to the location of at least two adjacent anterior teeth.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device designed to address the challenges of dental prosthetics, particularly in restoring anterior teeth. The device is a replica denture that fits over dental implants, providing a functional and aesthetic solution for patients with missing anterior teeth. The replica denture includes a gap that aligns with the location of at least two adjacent anterior teeth, allowing for precise positioning and stability when attached to the implants. This design ensures proper alignment and functionality while accommodating the natural spacing of anterior teeth. The device is engineered to integrate seamlessly with the patient's oral anatomy, improving comfort and performance compared to traditional dentures. The gap feature ensures that the replica denture can be securely fitted over the implants while maintaining the correct positioning of the anterior teeth, enhancing both aesthetics and function. This solution is particularly useful in cases where multiple anterior teeth are missing, providing a stable and durable prosthetic option. The device's design prioritizes both structural integrity and patient comfort, making it a reliable choice for dental restoration.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The implant-supported functional fitting replica denture device of claim 9 , wherein the gap is adjacent a planar ridge of the gingival region and the planar ridge extends between the first and second teeth regions.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to implant-supported dentures designed to replicate the functional and aesthetic aspects of natural teeth. The device addresses the challenge of creating a stable, natural-looking denture that integrates with dental implants while maintaining proper alignment and fit. The denture includes a base structure with first and second tooth regions, each designed to interface with dental implants. A gap is incorporated adjacent a planar ridge in the gingival (gum) region, where the ridge spans between the first and second tooth regions. This gap ensures proper spacing and alignment, preventing interference with the implants while allowing for natural movement and function. The planar ridge provides structural support and stability, ensuring the denture remains securely positioned. The design improves comfort, durability, and aesthetic integration compared to traditional dentures, particularly for patients with multiple implants. The invention focuses on optimizing the interface between the denture and the gingival region to enhance fit and functionality.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

June 9, 2020

Inventors

David Morales
Gilbert A. Rivera
Nhung Tieu Truong Campbell

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Apparatus and Methods of Making Denture Devices